| dc.description.abstract | The mechanical seal manufacturer can now offer the user new seal designs quickly and efficiently, and can respond to trouble shooting requests rapidly, through the use of modern, computerized, seal design techniques. In particular, a mathematical model of a generalized mechanical seal has been constructed, which incorporates the fluid dynamics of the thin fluid film between the faces and the mechanical and thermal behavior of the various seal components. This model, in the form of a series of interactive computer programs, is used by the seal designer to predict the performance of a given seal design. The designer enters the seal geometry, physical properties of the seal and fluid, and the operating conditions as inputs. The computer programs then determine such seal characteristics as fluid film thickness, power dissipation, torque, leakage rate, deformation characteristics, and temperature distribution. In developing a new seal, this mathematical model allows the designer to evaluate a larger number of alternative designs without the necessity of extensive testing. In troubleshooting an existing seal, the model assists the designer in identifying the source of problems, and correcting those problems through design changes. This computerized seal model has been used to analyze a number of seals which have been built and tested. The model predictions agree well with the test results. | en |
